Her Happy Trails

Surprise attack!

Posted on February 27, 2013 by erikamae82

Time to catch up before I depart from the US for another stretch of amazing adventures!
Let’s do this quickly as I’m leaving for the airport this morning and you just never know when the next “wifi” will pop up in the journey.

After Oklahoma, I made a sneak attack on my unexpected mom. She thought I was flying to a friends place before my final stop in Atlanta… Wrong! I wanted to be there for her birthday (if you know my mom, this means the world to her!) so I had her friend pick me up at the airport and here’s what happened next:

Our phone call started with her upstairs (unable to see me) as I walked in the front door.

“Hey mom, how are you?” as I close the front door.
“I’m good, oh wait… I think my friend is here.”
“Oh, should I let ya go?”
“Nah, they’ll just come up the stairs.”
Sadly I reply “Awh, I wish it was me walking up the stairs.”
She responds with “I know, that would just be amazing!”

As she finished that sentence I topped the final step and walked around the corner.

With camera in hand, I did my best to capture her reaction. If you can’t tell, there was a combination of excited confusion, screaming, crying and a hug that pleasantly lasted a long time.

Our week in a few photos:

Valentines day she was hosting a gorgeous event that I got a sneak peak of. I loved capturing this moment as she was serenaded by the humble and extremely talented Jeff McBride. This was the start to her Birthday week celebration!

Next up, live music! If you’re into quality lyrics and a chill vibe, you will thoroughly enjoy my new friends from the band Heritage. These guys absolutely did a job well done by keeping the crowd smiling, dancing and for me personally… directing thoughts towards positive energy! Thank you Tony for your voice of peaceful sound and our inedible conversations that followed.

Ending our trip with a walk around some local spots and a market of fun eats, homemade goodies, all with an awesome view!

Thank you “honey” girl for letting me borrow your gloves!

Recognize this? Me neither. It was the post office used in the movie Truman Show with Jim Carrey. I had no idea it was filmed here!

From here, I jumped over to visit my good ol’ buddy Marshall in Jacksonville before we drove to Atlanta… My final handstand in the states before I depart again!

Next stop… El Salvador!

Categories: Art, Uncategorized | Tags: Atlanta, Florida, Jacksonville, Jeff McBride | Leave a comment

Another pit stop in Oklahaoma

Posted on February 23, 2013 by erikamae82

After a short stretch back to Sacramento and a quicker stop in Arizona, I decided to spoil myself with another visit to Oklahoma! Now when I say “spoil”, I’m not talking about the good ol’ dry brown scenery or the flat roads with limited landscapes. I’m purely speaking of connecting with my precious family that I’m extremely grateful for.

I’m going to dedicate this one to my Aunt’s (my father’s sisters) and their mom who I call Grams.

Ill start with Aunt Tonya. Through example, she has been one of my greatest teachers. With her nurturing character she would (and did) give to others when she was the one in need. She was a natural at comforting the unsettled and there was never any doubt that her intensions were driven from pure love. I’m confident to believe that Aunt Tonya is missed and thought of often by those who were blessed to have known her.

Things I would be honored to say that I inherited from my Aunt Tonya: The ability to truly embrace joy, inner strength, and the adorable “shoulder bounce” that happens once the giggles kick in.
This photo is the two of us about 25 years ago. Her eyes say it all…

I’ve been told that my style mostly resembles Aunt Cindee. The family says, “When she was your age…” she carried herself with a natural bohemian vibe and a hippie flare. With a contagious laugh and quick mind, you can imagine the hours I enjoy bonding with her. I think if we grew up together, we would of made fantastic college roommates!

Things I inherited from Aunt Cindee: Love for homemade soup, a gypsy heart and her sense of humor (that’s based on exaggerated visuals and usually leads to a dramatic description that goes way too far… all resulting in involuntary distorted facial expressions).

After raising two children, she now designates most of her time to her energetic (to say the least) grandson and her job at Cushing Valley Hope. This is a drug rehab center in a stately mansion that provides residential, day or partial care, medically monitored alcohol detox, family and continuing care services. Also, the location for my handstand pic of the day!

Oh Aunt Heidi, Aunt Heidi, Aunt Heidi…. What will we ever do with her? She has a blunt direction when sharing her opinion and an effortless way to make you laugh. Being around her gives you a youthful sense of life (she didn’t pay me to say that). While raising her teenage daughter, she still maintains sanity and invites me for countless hours of laughter and reminiscing.

Things I inherited from Aunt Heidi: The nickname “Shug”, love for high energy socializing and her “guns” (aka arms). Also when I sarcastically laugh, my mom says “that was SO your Aunt Heidi!”

Grams, the woman that raised these 3 lovely ladies along with my dad (she must have super powers) plays a special roll in my life. Without too much said, she is simply one of my best friends. I can tell her anything, she gets my humor and most of all, she has shown me unconditional love through all the stages of my life.
Things I believe that I inherited from my irreplaceable Grandma: The love for good food, the eyes she gave my father, occasional necessary stubbornness and the ability to finish a soft serve cone quicker than you can start one.

The reason there are no photos of the girls described above is because they have mastered the art of “picture dodging”… Something I clearly didn’t inherit from them!

Need an idea for a creative gift? I took this photo of my family and made it into a puzzle for Grams. Love it!

To wrap up my Oklahoma family time, here are some fun photos of me and my sibs goofing off on a sunny Oklahoma winter day.

They set up an obstacle course from dads work scaffolding, garden gear and their own toys. Creativity is must when you’re raised without a television, computer or video games… I love to see what they come up with!

Now off to the airport on a snowy day in Oklahoma. Next stop? It’s a surprise.

They even had to “de-ice” the plane before take off.

My favorite part about taking off in a storm, is watching the sky break into a beautiful calm blue. Exposing the fact, that everyday is a sunny day… sometimes there’s just a few clouds in the way.

Categories: Uncategorized | Tags: Aunts, Cushing, family, grams, puzzle, siblings, snow, storm, Valley Hope | Leave a comment

“Doing work in the AZ” (words by Christie)

Posted on February 11, 2013 by erikamae82

Although this post is mainly snap shots of the weekend, it holds a special place in my memory. On the way back across the country (working my way towards the east coast to fly south again), I made a pit stop in Phoenix Arizona to visit some friends. Here’s a quick recap of the personalities that I got to spend Super Bowl weekend with.

I’ll start with the owner of this new home, a girl I met playing with finger paint and Elmer’s glue back in kindergarten, Christie. This woman will add laughter and life to any gathering. With her sarcastic sense of humor delivered with pure love, she keeps those around her on their toes and usually running to the nearest bathroom doing the “potty dance”.
Here we are at age 5 together (rockin some rad hair) followed by a recent picture of her (rockin some rad hair). Thanks for letting me “play” with your golden locks lady!

Next up is Nate. The bodyguard, the the big kid and in my opinion a teddy bear disguised as a solid rock. This is why he makes an incredible travel partner! The first two pictures are from our trip to Europe a couple of years ago, followed by his “character” shot from the weekend. Love this guy!

Then there’s Hayden, I’ve known this fella for a solid 10, wait… over 15 years! To this day, he still has the ability to make me smile no matter what the circumstance. Unfortunately I don’t have any Jr.High pictures available, but if you focus on the two middle boys in the picture below, on the left is Michael (the owner of the bar I visited in Argentina) and to the right (the other red head), is Hayden.
Side note: Look forward to more posts of these two fine gentleman as they plan to hike Machu Picchu with me this year!

I’ll wrap up the friend descriptions with Christies perfect match, John. He happens to be my definition of “kind hearted”. I felt at home right away with this gorgeous power duo.

So it begins. Here is the house during construction followed by a weekend of playing in the dirt!

Did I mention that I love rocks?

A moment with my lady!

Break time with the crew as we take a quick road trip to prep for the Super Bowl!

What’s this? The ice-cream man! For all if my friends abroad who didn’t get the amazing childhood luxury of an ice cream truck, imagine this… A jolly man in a decorated vehicle driving around your local neighborhood. He’s playing familiar cheerful music that attracts children (and me) for a pick of any frozen dessert they desire! As creepy as it sounds when I describe it, it’s actually a very fond memory! Who didn’t love chasing down a van full of sugar?

I thought this was a fun idea to fill the void of an empty building.

Back home and getting ready for the big day. Food, drinks and far away friends? Check!
(Thank you for the great pictures Christie!)

Cartoons on for the small kids? Game on for the big kids? Check. Youngest follower looking at my blog? Excellent!

Appropriate dress attire? Not a chance.

A day of smiles with new and old friends for Super Bowl… Perfect.

What a sunset to finish up this brilliant weekend!

Categories: Accommodations, Edibles!, Uncategorized | Tags: Arizona, cactus, Phoenix, Super Bowl, yard work | Leave a comment

Yoga? You found me! LEAP this way…

Posted on February 6, 2013 by erikamae82

*Some of the photos below are borrowed from fellow LEAP lovers.

Depending on how long you’ve been following this blog, you probably get a solid idea that I believe things, people, and places are introduced into your life at the appropriate time. All for reasons that we may not even be aware of. Now enters LEAP yoga and everyone there!

LEAP is a studio located in my hometown of Folsom, California. I would often hear of the place through several invitations from friends who were already attending. At that time in my life, I chose working full time (over time), lifting weights, and dancing were my three priorities of energy expense. I’m not saying that I had chosen the healthier options… It’s just the way it was.

Upon returning to the ever so familiar city of Folsom, I was greeted by my precious (to say at the least) friend Crystal with an invite to join her for yoga. “Let me guess” I say, ‘It’s that LEAP place everyone keeps talking about, right?”. With a huge expression and a face filled with her contagious smile, she replies, “Yeh! So you’re going!”. Feeling the need to focus internally and release some tension, I decided it was a great idea, little did I know…. A brilliant idea! Let’s call it journey changing.

As you enter LEAP you’re greeted with genuine smiles and more often than not an abundance of sincere hugs followed by “I’m so excited you’re here!”

Side fun note: See that sparkling smile in the middle of the instructors photos? That’s Mark, a friend in which I used to trick-o-treat with back in our elementary school days. Now he’s a guiding light here at LEAP! Below is a photo from our old school yearbook, Awh…so cute!

Moving on to the natural calming sense that begins to take over as you make your way to practice. How can you feel stressed out when you approach a waterfall Buddha? Just feel the instant dropping of your shoulders as you enter a warm room filled with peaceful decor.

Im sure we’re all here for a different reasons. Many want the exercise and stretching, others might desire a sort of meditation or therapeutic session. No matter what your intensions are, as you arrive to the practice and you layout your mat, you’re tickled with an “indescribable” feeling. Something that grows within you as you acknowledge your purpose and embrace the beautiful experience. (Those feelings I will attempt to describe in a future post!)

Here is a scrumptious handful of photos to try and give you just a glimpse of the pure energy, sweaty smiles and active room that is… LEAP!

The creators, Cathy and Corey (pictured below) shared a vision for creating a studio where one could feel connected, supported and honored. “At Leap we are committed to building a community rooted in compassion, love and truth. We want to support all of our students in creating their best life.” Mission accomplished my new friends!

They have a modern website that is welcoming and easy to follow. I encourage you to check it out to get a more thorough idea of this magical place! Click here to be directed to leapyoga.net.

Here are two of my favorite pictures from the LEAP website!

A very deep and personal note of gratitude to Crystal, Jamie, Donna, Mark, Jenna, Michelle, Robert, Allie, Allison and Joy. You each have uniquely enhanced my life with such grace, I couldn’t have planned it for better. Thank you for sharing and enjoying our path crossing!

Categories: Art, Fitness, Uncategorized | Tags: California, exercise, Folsom, Leap, meditation, peace, practice, Yoga | 1 Comment

Day in the bay… San Francisco!

Posted on February 2, 2013 by erikamae82

Although I was raised just 100 miles away from this popular place, I find myself visiting for the first time as a tourist. What a fabulous city!

Who else but one of my best buds Walker to join me for this day of Bay area exploring. Our drive starts with blue sky and two smiles!

Nervous about going over bridges? This journey may not be for you as it’s necessary to cruise over a few throughout the day.

First stop is one of the most photographed spots in the world, the Golden Gate Bridge.
To answer a common question, no it’s not gold. It’s said to be “international orange” or in Walkers words, “It’s more of a red”.

SF Fun fact #1- The Golden Gate Bridge is continuously painted and repainted all the time. It’s so long that by the time the paint crew gets from one end to the other, it’s time to start over again.

Handstand photo!

The sign above describes what each rod is made of to support this massive structure. Below is a close up of the iron rods that make up each cable.

Can you walk across it? Of course! Let’s do it.

I’m not sure why the cyclist get all the room.

As you heel toe across these gorgeous steel path, signs keep you aware of the height that can take your life if dared to compete.

SF Fun Fact #2- The production of the bridge was the first of its kind to ever use nets as safety for falling workers.

We pause in the middle for a view that encourages a deep breath and forces the eyes to wander in attempt to capture all that’s around you.

That “little” island out there is the famous prison that is now closed but is still known as Alkatraz. I found a easy read website describing some details about it. Click here for the facts

On the way back we witness the “official” crew and their transportation cruising across bridge, you’ve got to smile on the intensity of these mini machines!

What’s this? I’ve only seen this abroad, which leaves me to wonder if these were attached by visitors here from over seas. The tradition brings a loving couple to the bridge and after securing it to the gate, they toss the key overboard to lock in their commitment.

Last shot as we exit the bridge followed by a “creative” photo I snapped with a neat effect.

Now, off to the well known cross streets of Haight and Ashbury. I absolutely love walking through this bohemian neighborhood of thrift stores, music shops, cafe’s and specialty boutiques. Here are some photos on the drive over and some fun in the shops.

SF Fun Fact #3- Denim jeans were invented in San Francisco for the Gold Rush miners who needed tough, comfortable clothing.

This wall was so magnetic!

SF Fun Fact #4- This city ranks fourth in the world, after New York, Moscow and London, in terms of the numbers of billionaires that call it home. This is despite the fact that it has less than 10% of the population of the other three cities. San Francisco is also known for having the largest Chinese community in the world, outside of China.

As we finished up the afternoon, I made photos from the passenger seat on our drive out of the city. Well, that was after we found the owner to the van that decided our car needed a hug.

Clearly the owner of this dog didn’t read the sign.

Adorable.

Nearing the famous Fisherman’s Warf before crossing the final bridge through the tunnel and Sacramento bound.

SF Fun Fact #5- The Chinese Fortune Cookie was invented in SF at the Japanese Tea Garden by Makato Hagiwara. Chop Suey was also created in the bay during a banquet!

I can absolutely understand why so many people around the world travel here to capture the energy of San Francisco. I’m so thankful I got the perfect company to join me on this day. Rabbit ears and all… Walker, you’re sawesome (not a typo).

Categories: Art, Uncategorized | Tags: alkatraz, bay, California, Fishermans Wharf, Golden Gate Bridge, Haight and Ashbury, San fransisco | 2 Comments

And the winner is…

Posted on January 28, 2013 by erikamae82

Thank you everyone for contributing to the decision of the “handstand of the year” photo. After open nominations and a week of voting here are the winners!

In a strong first place, you voted for the shot at the top of Stone Mountain in Atalanta, Georgia. Thank you Marshall for capturing this winning photo!

The runner up is an unforgettable picture (in which some has asked if it was photo shopped… No way!) peering over the lost city of Machu Picchu in Peru. Thank you random British couple that took time of their tour to make sure this picture came out just right!

The following three are equally as memorable and ranked as honorable mentions.

Yes, this is in the middle of Grand Central Station in New York City, New York. Also, commonly referred to as the “Where’s Erika?”. Jessica, you were a trooper with this one! Due to the noise, distance and the crowd, we just crossed our fingers and went for it. Well done my friend!

This is perched up on an over look, giving you a partial view of Tossa De Mar, Spain. To the French guy who snapped this shot, the look on your face when I came out of the handstand clearly showed you had no idea I was going upside down. Hopefully you walked away with a smile after taking this photo of a non traditional tourist.

The small town of Ipoh in Malaysia brought this gorgeous waterfall dropping from the jungles above. Kuldip and family, thank you for sharing your beautiful home town with me!

Fun categories that I wanted to share!

“The most attempts to get the single shot” is in Lake Tekapo, New Zealnad. I had to balance the camera on a rock sitting hillside while angling it to capture this view. After finally getting the angle right, I then had to set the self timer and run down the hill, jump up on a shaky table, kick up without going over and balance the handstand long enough with hope that I got it…. Who knows how long had passed before a sweet backpacker approached me and said “Can I help you with that?”

A three way tie for “The cutest helpers”!

The children from Club Suyai Wari, Peru

The Dutch couple in Munich, Germany at Oktoberfest

…and of course my adorable siblings in Agra, Oklahoma!

The winner of “Hardest handstand to hold” goes to Huacachina, Peru. Those boots were so heavy to kick up to a full handstand, not even considering to do it in sand!

Salzburg, Austria definitely takes the cake for the story behind “Best 8 minutes surrounding a handstand” winner. This peaceful picture was in the middle of what could of been a 24 hour adventure made into a short film. Marshall, we definitely Salzburged it!

If you’re new to this site and are interested in seeing all of the handstand photos, just click at the top of the page “Handstanding around the world”. More to come!

Categories: Fitness, Polls, Uncategorized | Tags: 2012, Handstand winner, Vote | 1 Comment

Happy and healthy with sandy toes!

Posted on January 15, 2013 by erikamae82

We’ve all heard the famous words, “Exercise releases endorphins”. These are natural hormones that flood the body with a feel-good energy that releases stress and uplifts your mood… and I love it!

I headed down to the complimentary gym of the condo to get my heart rate up and release those amazing endorphins.
Although small, I appreciated the cleanliness as I observed what tools I had to work with. They had a few treadmills, two seated bikes and a set of free weights all stored in a compact room with a magnificent view.

As I peddled away during my warm up, it hit me… wham! I’m sitting in a tiny room with florescent lighting, and a window that happened to be showing me a much bigger, brighter, and fabulous gym… We call it the beach!

I stopped the bike and headed towards mom to see if she was up for a workout in the sand. The gym was on the 4th floor, our place sat on the 20th and if you know me well, you know this was an invite for a stair climb. Ready set go!

Once reaching mom, 2 minutes and 18 seconds later (I timed my stair climb each attempt in order to motivate a quick pace) we agreed that a beach visit would be the perfect ending to this vibrant day.

Fitness time! I’m going to break this down into some basic thoughts for a proper beach workout.

Let’s start with some rules. First off, check your surroundings to make sure you don’t put yourself or any others in danger. That appears easy today!

Next, scan the sand for any seashells that can later be made into jewelry (that I’ll be taking abroad to gift, trade or donate).

Bring liquids to keep hydrated (preferably in self designed cups).

Be aware of seagulls and/or any other flying creature that could view your head as a target.

Time to get the heart rate up! I spy I tiny bird that wants to play tag, so I sneak up…

…and the chase begins! He won.

I take a breather to practice some press handstand moves. These are much harder for me than it appears!

Back to increasing the heart rate… Tuck jumps and running in place are two great ways to do so while triggering different muscles.

I then attempted to play with the waves. I chase them, they get me. I dodge them, they get me.

Now everyone STOP! Its time for the dance portion of this work out.

Followed by a quick photo shoot requested by the photographer (my proud mom of course).

A peaceful stretch after the energetic fun seems to align the mind and body to a calm sense of completion.

The final task is sharing the sunset with your best friend. Taking each breath in appreciation for your health and happiness while having full gratitude for whats in front of you. I cheers with a smile to living in the now.

Categories: Fitness, Uncategorized | Tags: Beach, cardio, fitness, Florida, Gymnastics, sand, workout | 1 Comment

Vote for the “Handstand photo of the year”

Posted on January 14, 2013 by erikamae82

It brings many smiles to my heart when I think back on the incredible last year of travels.

I thoroughly enjoyed making these shots and I’d love YOU to pick the favorite! After open nominations, the top 5 are below in no specific order. Please vote now in the poll box provided. Love, joy and gratitude!

Tossa De Mar, Spain

Machu Picchu, Peru

Grand Central Station in New York City, New York

Ipoh, Malaysia

Stone Mountain in Atlanta, Georgia

Which is your favorite handstand photo of 2012?
(VOTE BY CLICKING THE LINK ABOVE)

Categories: Polls, Uncategorized | Tags: annual, handstand, poll, Vote, world | 1 Comment

Do you believe in blue giraffes?

Posted on January 12, 2013 by erikamae82

I do! Welcome to the inspirational Blue Giraffe or what I now call the positive energy of Watercolor, Florida.

Why a giraffe? As said by the owners themselves, “Giraffe’s have really big hearts (two feet long and 25 lbs. on average) and a big heart is what drives our business philosophy at The Blue Giraffe”.

This unique place provides an opening experience for the eyes and mind with the abundance of color, texture and artistic variety. As you snoop through The Blue Giraffe, you’ll think to yourself and hear from others, “Ooh, look at that” or “I wonder what’s that made of” and my personal favorite, “Oh wait, that’s a necklace…you can wear that!”

From local art to jewelry, books to knick knacks this stimulating boutique supports local designers and promotes recycling and reuse of what would normally be “waste”. Let’s check it out!
One must properly greet Jeanie the giraffe (named after her grandma) before you enter this magical place of art.

A quick look around isn’t possible as every space is filled with one-of-a-kind items. With that said, here’s a glance at the store full of happy handmade creations!

Mom pointed this one out to me, “That was made for you”. So when (if) I grow up and have a place of my own, you may or may not find this is on my wall!

Let’s take a closer look for all the inner “beach bum” in all of us!

The following pieces are all made with sea shells or recycled broken glass.

Here’s my favorite corner as it bring attention to the reuse of everyday items to create an eye catching work of art. Can you figure out what these are made of?

Some creative shots with my pretend fancy camera.

Look who I found! World, meet Christi. This is the brilliant owner who shines just as vibrant as the walls around her. She will greet you with a smile (and a piece of chocolate) every time you enter her home of pride and joy. Christi, thank you for sharing your passion with us. Your enthusiasm towards supporting the local talent through representing their incredible abilities is much appreciated by all!

…and a final goodbye to Jeanie as we depart till next time.

Click here to be directed to their official website!

Categories: Art, Fashion from a backpack, Uncategorized | Tags: art, Blue giraffe, Florida, jewelry, Panama city beach, travel, unique, watercolor | 1 Comment

Cheers to the next chapter!

Posted on January 5, 2013 by erikamae82

What a year! This day marks 12 months that I’ve been living out of a backpack and circling the globe. Let’s pause for all the other backpackers out there and take a moment to absorb what I mean by “living”. I’m not implying that I was on vacation with a suitcase or barely surviving on the road with some luggage. I mean my toiletries, kitchen, first aid, bedroom closet, and playroom was carried on my back around the world. I now have a new attachment to this blue beauty that has hugged me on trains, busses and hikes and slept next to me in hostels, vans, airports and tree houses. It’s been below jet planes and on top of Peruvian mini vans… I feel like it should have a name, any suggestions?

As I begin to comprehend where I’ve been and continue to appreciate where I am now, I realize that my experiences are reaching beyond the people and places and are now truly extending to new friends and extraordinary cultures.

Much love and many thanks to those who have continually supported this spectacular adventure. To the fellow travelers that have brought me new perspectives and to the other unexpected connections along the way… My heart has full gratitude for your vibrant addition to my life.

Cheers to the next chapter and more priceless memories!

*Side note: I’m currently taking nominations for the handstand photo of the year! Please take a look at the page above titled “Handstanding around the world” and pick your favorites. You can comment below or email me directly at universalaughter@yahoo.com. The top 5 will be announced and voted on soon!

Categories: Fashion from a backpack, Travel talk, Uncategorized | Tags: anniversary, Backpackers, gratitude, handstand contest, next chapter, traveling | 2 Comments

Surprise attack!

Another pit stop in Oklahaoma

“Doing work in the AZ” (words by Christie)

Yoga? You found me! LEAP this way…

Day in the bay… San Francisco!

And the winner is…

Happy and healthy with sandy toes!

Vote for the “Handstand photo of the year”

Do you believe in blue giraffes?

Cheers to the next chapter!

Recent Posts

Archives

Categories

Meta

Follow my blog